David Gillespie (Lyne, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to acknowledge the recent inclusion of a number of my constituents in the seat of Lyne on the Australia Day Honours lists. First of all, I would like to congratulate Rodney O'Regan of Hillville who was recognised with an Order of Australia Medal for service to the welfare of veterans and their families and for his service to military history. Lynette Mayo of Cundletown was recognised with an OAM for her community work and for her service to the community of the Mid North Coast. Port Macquarie's Ryley Batt received recognition for his service to sport, having been an inspiration to many in wheelchair rugby, and for his efforts as a gold medallist at the London 2012 Paralympics. Howard Croker of Oxley Island, who has spent his life involved in the sport of rowing, also received an OAM. Recently retired Mid North Coast magistrate Wayne Evans was awarded an OAM for service to law and to the community of the region. John Ingram received an OAM for service to the refugee community.

Congratulations also to our citizens of the year throughout the Lyne electorate. Port Macquarie-Hastings Citizen of the Year was Ally Costanzo, who was recognised for her work with some of the most vulnerable in our community. Senior Citizen of the Year was Laurie Barber, a former Rotarian, and Young Citizen of the Year was Ahlia Westaway-Griffiths. (Time expired)